Diabetes support10 min
Tulsi and Methi Tea After Meals
A light, unsweetened tea of tulsi leaves and a pinch of methi seeds after lunch or dinner, a soothing sugar-free drink for people watching blood sugar.
Important: this remedy is only a supportive home measure. Keep taking any medicine your doctor has prescribed, monitor your readings, and consult your doctor before adding anything new.
Using tulsi sensibly at home
Tulsi, or holy basil, grows in a pot in many Indian courtyards. Ayurveda describes it as warming and light, and families use a few leaves in tea, kadha and morning rituals.
A couple of small trials suggest tulsi may modestly help fasting and post-meal sugar, and methi adds soluble fibre. More practically, this warm, sugar-free tea replaces sweet chai after meals.
Ingredients
- 6 to 8 tulsi leaves
- ¼ tsp methi seeds
- 1½ cups water
How to prepare
- Simmer methi seeds for five minutes, add tulsi for two more minutes; strain.
How to use
- Sip after lunch or dinner, unsweetened.
Helpful habits
- Pick fresh leaves from a clean home plant and rinse them well.
Precautions
- Monitor sugar if you are on insulin or sulfonylureas.
- Use a few leaves, not handfuls; it is warming.
- Check with a doctor if you take blood thinners or are planning a pregnancy.
- Keep checking your sugar; tell your doctor before adding this, as medicine doses may need review.
- Stop if you notice itching, rash, stomach upset or any other discomfort.
Frequently asked questions
Can I add stevia?
- Yes, if you prefer it slightly sweet.
Can I drink it daily?
- Yes, as a mild kitchen tea.
Is dried tulsi as good as fresh?
- Dried leaves work for tea; use a little less as they are concentrated.
